Winning ways: these lucky people will be pursuing their dreams

Could you be the next winner?

The spotlight is now on the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, which kicks off on 27 July 2012 and will see 26 Olympic sports played by 10,500 athletes in 34 venues, and 20 Paralympic sports played by 4,200 athletes in 21 venues – it promises to be an amazing spectacle.

Inspired by this celebration of sporting excellence, British Airways, official airline partner of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, has launched its own search for excellence called Great Britons. Every UK citizen resident in the UK and aged 16 and over who needs help to develop their talent in their chosen field can apply. The categories cover everything from sport to fashion, performing arts to innovation, community to art and design.

The judges are looking for talented individuals and groups who epitomise the values associated with the Olympic and Paralympic Games and who strive to be the best. Only those who demonstrate they’re determined, competitive and courageous enough to follow their dreams will win.

The winners get flights to British Airways destinations anywhere in the world plus a winner’s pack, which includes a camcorder.

Eight entrants are shortlisted for Great Britons in each round, with the two who get the most public votes declared the winners. On this page are some of the people British Airways has already helped. There’ll be lots more winners – you could be one of them!

Don’t miss our next six winners in The Independent Magazine next week.